Why Paediatric First Aid Matters
Children are naturally curious and adventurous, which sometimes leads to accidents and injuries. Unlike adults, children have different physiological responses to injuries and illnesses, making specialized paediatric first aid knowledge crucial. Quick, appropriate action can make the difference between a minor incident and a serious emergency.
Legal Requirements in the UK
Current EYFS Requirements
Under the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework, all early year’s providers in England must ensure that at least one person with a current paediatric first aid certificate is always present when children are present. This requirement has been in place since 2014, following the tragic case of Millie Thompson, which highlighted the critical importance of proper paediatric first aid training.
Important Legislative Changes – September 2025
New requirements for students and trainees are coming into effect:
From September 2025, early years students and trainees (including apprenticeships) will be required to have their PFA certification to be included in ratios at the level below their level of study. This means:
- Level 3 students: Must have PFA certification to count as Level 2 in ratios
- Level 2 students: Must have PFA certification to count as Level 1 in ratios
- Apprentices: Must obtain PFA certification to be included in staffing ratios
This change significantly impacts workforce planning and training schedules for early years settings, making PFA training more crucial than ever for maintaining adequate staffing levels.
Training Requirements
- 12-hour Paediatric First Aid Course: Required for designated staff in childcare settings
- Certificates valid for 3 years: Must be renewed before expiration
- New staff: Have 3 months from start date to obtain PFA certification (for those qualified after June 2016)
- Refresher training: Recommended annually to maintain skills and knowledge
Essential Paediatric First Aid Skills Every Parent Should Know
- Choking Response
For infants (under 1 year):
- Hold the baby face-down along your forearm
- Give 5 sharp back blows between the shoulder blades
- If unsuccessful, turn baby over and give 5 chest thrusts
For children (1-8 years):
- Encourage coughing if they can breathe
- If severe choking, give 5 back blows followed by 5 abdominal thrusts
- Call 999 if obstruction doesn’t clear
- Burns and Scalds
- Cool the burn with cold running water for at least 10 minutes
- Remove clothing from around the burn (unless stuck to skin)
- Cover with cling film or clean, dry cloth
- Seek medical attention for burns larger than the child’s palm
- Bleeding Control
- Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth
- Raise the injured area above heart level if possible
- If blood soaks through, add more layers without removing the first
- Seek medical help for deep or persistently bleeding wounds
- Unconsciousness and CPR
For children:
- Check responsiveness by gently shaking shoulders
- Open airway by tilting head back and lifting chin
- Give 2 rescue breaths followed by 30 chest compressions
- Continue until emergency services arrive
Common Childhood Emergencies
Febrile Seizures
- Affect 1 in 20 children between 6 months and 6 years
- Usually, last less than 5 minutes
- Place child in recovery position
- Do not put anything in their mouth
- Call 999 if it’s their first seizure or lasts longer than 5 minutes
Allergic Reactions
- Mild reactions: antihistamines and remove allergen
- Severe reactions (anaphylaxis): use EpiPen if available and call 999 immediately
- Signs include difficulty breathing, swelling, and widespread rash
Head Injuries
- Watch for confusion, vomiting, or unusual behaviour
- Apply ice pack wrapped in cloth to reduce swelling
- Seek immediate medical attention if child loses consciousness
Prevention is Key
Home Safety Measures
- Install safety gates at top and bottom of stairs
- Use socket covers and cupboard locks
- Keep small objects that could cause choking out of reach
- Ensure hot drinks and cooking areas are inaccessible
Water Safety
- Never leave children unattended near water
- Use appropriate flotation devices when swimming
- Learn to recognize signs of drowning (often silent)
When to Call Emergency Services
Always call 999 for:
- Unconsciousness or altered consciousness
- Difficulty breathing or choking that cannot be relieved
- Severe bleeding that won’t stop
- Suspected poisoning
- Severe burns
- Head injuries with loss of consciousness
- Suspected broken bones
- High fever with other concerning symptoms
Building Confidence Through Training
Choosing the Right Training Provider
What to Look For
When selecting a paediatric first aid training provider, ensure they offer:
- Accredited courses: Recognized by HSE, Ofsted, and other regulatory bodies
- Face-to-face delivery: Hands-on practical training with infant resuscitation equipment
- EYFS compliance: Courses designed specifically for early years practitioners
- Experienced instructors: Qualified trainers with early years sector knowledge
- Comprehensive content: Covering all elements outlined in Annex A of the EYFS framework
Preparing for the September 2025 Changes
With new legislation affecting students and trainees, early years settings need to plan ahead:
- Audit current staff qualifications and identify training gaps
- Budget for additional PFA training for students and apprentices
- Schedule training well in advance to avoid staffing ratio issues
- Consider refresher training to maintain high standards across your team
At Marvel Training Ltd, we understand the unique challenges facing early years providers and offer comprehensive paediatric first aid training that meets all current and upcoming EYFS requirements.
Our courses are designed to give practitioners the confidence and skills needed to respond effectively in emergency situations while ensuring full compliance with legislation.
Practice Makes Perfect
- Refresh skills regularly with family members
- Practice scenarios with dolls or mannequins
- Stay updated with latest guidelines
- Consider annual refresher courses
The Emotional Aspect
Dealing with a child’s emergency can be emotionally challenging. Remember:
- Stay calm to think clearly
- Reassure the child throughout treatment
- It’s normal to feel shaken afterward
- Seek support if needed after a traumatic incident
Resources and Support
Emergency Contacts
- Emergency services: 999
- NHS 111: For non-emergency medical advice
- Poison information: NHS 111 or 999 in severe cases
Conclusion
Paediatric first aid knowledge is invaluable for anyone caring for children, and with the upcoming September 2025 legislative changes, it’s become even more essential for early years settings. The new requirements for students and trainees mean that comprehensive PFA training is no longer optional but a critical component of workforce planning.
Whether you’re a nursery manager preparing for the 2025 changes, a new practitioner seeking certification, or an experienced childcare professional due for renewal, investing in quality paediatric first aid training ensures you’re equipped to protect the children in your care while meeting all statutory requirements.
Remember, the goal isn’t to replace professional medical care but to provide immediate, appropriate assistance until help arrives. With proper training and preparation, you can respond confidently and effectively in any emergency.
Ready to ensure your team is prepared for the September 2025 changes? Contact Marvel Training Ltd today to discuss your paediatric first aid training needs and secure your places on our upcoming courses.
